Leaders from Somerset Council have held a high-level meeting with the county's seven MPs and their representatives in Westminster, aiming to ensure Somerset's priorities are heard at the national level.

Council leader Cllr Bill Revans invited MPs Adam Dance, Anna Sabine, Sir Ashley Fox, Gideon Amos, Rachel Gilmour, Sarah Dyke, and Tessa Munt to a briefing ahead of next month's local government finance settlement. The meeting focused on fostering a unified approach to securing better support for Somerset's communities, businesses, and services.

Cllr Revans said: "The funding crisis facing local government goes beyond Somerset, but it has very real impacts on our residents, communities, and businesses. Regardless of party politics, we need the support of all our MPs to advocate for Somerset with the Government.

"It was a hugely positive first meeting, with representatives from all seven MPs in attendance, and I am grateful for their time. By working together as a 'Team Somerset' approach, we stand the best possible chance of making sure our voices are heard."

The briefing, attended by Cllr Theo Butt-Philip, Lead Member for Transformation, Human Resources and Localities, and senior council officers, covered critical issues including Somerset Council's financial challenges, devolution, and the potential impact of national funding allocations on local services.

The meeting marks an effort to build cross-party consensus and secure stronger advocacy for the county on the national stage. It comes as councils across the UK grapple with significant financial pressures, making next month's local government finance settlement particularly crucial.

Cllr Revans added: "This collaborative approach is essential. By working as a united front, we can better champion the needs of Somerset's residents and ensure our communities are not left behind."